Lodwar- August 20, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

While paying a courtesy visit to Deputy Governor, Dr John Erus, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) announced that in partnership with the International Trade Centre (ITC) among other collaborating partners launched a four-year initiative.

The project is Promoting Sustainable Socio-Economic Development and Creating Market-based Livelihood Opportunities for Refugees and Host Communities in Kenya.

The initiative will focus on three key sub-sectors: beekeeping, artisanal crafts, and digital services, and is running from 2023 to 2027.

The purpose of this project is to improve employability and enhance the competitiveness of small businesses in the refugee resettlement areas, including the host community.

The National Coordinator for ITC, Halkano Jillo Boru, emphasized the project’s comprehensive approach to development, focusing on technical skills, business development, and market access.

The Deputy Governor highlighted the importance of sustainable development, particularly in managing rangelands and enhancing socio-economic infrastructure like the Kalobeyei Vocational Centre.

DG Erus also called for support in pasture reseeding and digital job creation for young people.

The CECM for Trade, Gender and Youth Affairs, David Erukudi, underscored the county’s commitment to youth empowerment, focusing on promoting visible value chains and attracting investment.

The project will target 2,250 participants, including women and youths. Additionally, 550 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and producer groups, with an emphasis on women-owned businesses, will receive support.

United Nations Representative, Susan Aletia, stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to maximize impact, noting the potential to expand beekeeping initiatives with additional resources.

Other collaborating partners include Good Neighbors Kenya (GNK) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), supported by the County Government of Turkana, Business Supporting Organizations (BSOs), private sector and civil society organizations.

In attendance were the Deputy County Secretary, Joseph Nyanga, Country Director for KOICA, Dr. Jang Hee Im, who addressed the meeting as well as representatives from GNK, ITC, and KOICA.